Dr. S. John Salivonchik and his Coplay, PA dental team love every opportunity to see your smile, but for most people, that just means twice a year dental checkups. The other 363 days a year, your smile is in your capable hands. No matter how well you care for your oral health, it never hurts to get back to basics. We’re happy to help during your regular office visits, and invite you to read on for some brushing and flossing tips and tricks to assist you in reaching your healthiest smile.

Brushing Basics from Your Dentist in the Lehigh Valley

Most patients start brushing their teeth when they’re toddlers, and for many of our patients, this is the last time they think about it. We don’t usually ask people how they brush. Instead, we ask them to show us. What we see is patients brushing in large back and forth strokes or circles at random over the teeth. A recent BBC investigation revealed that patients who switched from random brushing in large strokes to systematic brushing with small, gentle strokes were able to remove nearly twice as much plaque and bacteria. Next time you brush, get back to basics:

Brush for at least two minutes at a time at least two times every day

Brush systematically – move from the back to the front of every tooth surface, or brush your teeth in “quarters,” back right, front right, and vice versa – this ensures every surface of every tooth receives equal attention

Use a vibrating, back and forth motion with the toothbrush bristles over one tooth at a time, or small circles over one or two teeth rather than large circles or back and forth motions

Wait 30 minutes after brushing to eat and 30 minutes after eating to brush

Flossing Fundamentals for Optimal Oral Health

It goes without saying that what patients dread most about the dentist isn’t the drills, shots, smells, sounds, or any of the other less than ideal parts of oral health care. No. What patients dread most is a simple question, “How often do you floss?” The majority of patients don’t enjoy it, but by skipping out on flossing, they neglect 40% of tooth surfaces. When it comes to flossing, the most important thing is to be consistent. Flossing every day builds skill and dexterity and keeps gums healthy making flossing more comfortable. Ask one of our hygienists to show you flossing techniques at your next visit.

Call Your Allentown Dentist – Dr. S. John Salivonchik

If it’s time for your regular dental checkup or you want to find out more about caring for your smile at home, contact Dr. Salivonchik and his Lehigh Valley dental team. We’re dedicated to helping patients achieve their healthiest smiles.